LPG crisis: Akshaya Patra Foundation switches to biogas, diesel

Amid the ongoing West Asia crisis that has disrupted LPG supplies, the Akshaya Patra Foundation has activated its backup plans by resorting to alternative sources of energy, helping ensure an uninterrupted supply of food to nearly 80,000 beneficiaries. Though the foundation too has been affected by the shortage of LPG cylinders, it has ensured that students covered under the Mid-Day Meal scheme, people availing meals at Anna Canteens, and patient attendants in government hospitals continue to receive food without disruption.

The Akshaya Patra kitchen at Gambheeram prepares food for nearly 16,000 students in 147 government schools under the Mid-Day Meal scheme. The kitchen uses not just the LPG, but also operates a diesel-powered boiler plant and a biogas plant for cooking.